Trends, especially in fashion, are in a constant and ever-changing cycle. The proliferation of smartphones and social media apps, such as Instagram and Tik Tok, have seemingly made these cycles even shorter. What is trendy now might not be within as little as 24 hours. These fickle fads can have long-lasting consequences when they center around altering your smile. From vampire fangs to dental bling, let’s take a trip down memory lane and decide if it’s time to revive these toothy trends, or retire them for good!
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Tooth Gems
Tooth gems, small decorations bonded to the tooth, have danced in and out of popularity since the ’90s. More recently, celebrities like Adwoa Aboah, Billy Eilish, and Pink have been seen sporting these sparkly accessories. Though they add a glint of glamour, tooth gems can potentially trap food and bacteria, leading to tooth decay and damage the enamel if not properly installed or removed. They also present a choking hazard if they become dislodged, depending on their size. If you’re considering a tooth gem, ask your dentist and avoid DIY solutions to prevent potential complications.
Grills
Grills, decorative covers often made from gold, silver, or lookalike alloys, have been a significant part of hip-hop culture since the 1980s, worn by countless rappers and celebrities such as Lil Wayne and Beyoncé. While grills can be a dazzling statement, they can also lead to problems such as plaque build-up, tooth decay, and gum disease. Ensuring that grills are custom-made by professionals and not worn for extended periods can mitigate these risks. Always remove grills before eating and clean both the grill and your teeth regularly. With the enduring popularity of rap music, we think this trend is likely here to stay.
Gap-Tooth
The gap-tooth smile, once considered a flaw, has become a beloved feature of many, including celebrities like Madonna and Michael Strahan. This entry is less about following a trend and more about learning to embrace one’s inherent beauty. A gap can sometimes lead to issues like food trapping, but that is easily remedied with diligent flossing. For those desiring to create or maintain a gap, or those pondering closure, consultation with a dental professional can ensure your smile’s health remains paramount.
Yaeba
Yaeba (八重歯), or “double teeth,” is a trend originating from Japan, valuing the youthful appearance of slightly crooked or overlapping front teeth. While some have this look naturally, others have their otherwise straight teeth surgically altered to capture the trend. Proponents of yaeba consider the look endearing, but it’s important to consider the long-term implications such as potential bite issues and difficulties in cleaning. Having naturally crooked teeth can present similar issues, but so long as they do not endanger your oral health, there is no reason for correction beyond aesthetics.
Vampire Teeth
The desire for elongated canine teeth (emulating a vampire’s fangs) usually trends every Halloween, but really exploded in popularity along with the “Twilight” series and subsequent vampire media frenzy. This permanent or temporary modification should be approached cautiously, as altering the shape of your teeth can affect your bite and tooth structure. As far as this trend is concerned, it might be best to stick with plastic and removable fangs.
Trendy Toothpastes
The allure of activated charcoal or purple whitening toothpaste is strong, touted for their novelty and promise of a brighter smile. However, the efficacy and safety of such toothpastes can vary. For instance, some charcoal toothpastes might be too abrasive, potentially causing irreversible damage to the enamel. And purple toothpaste takes advantage of color theory to make your teeth appear whiter for only a brief period. Look for whitening products with an ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval and consult your dentist for recommendations tailored to your dental care needs.
Conclusion
In the vibrant world of fashion, it’s exciting to experiment with different looks and trends. It can also be tempting to treat our teeth like just another accessory. However, the health of your teeth and gums should always be your primary focus. Unlike the latest fashion, your teeth stay with you for a lifetime.
At Coast Dental, we champion the notion of expressing oneself while not losing sight of oral health. For personalized advice or to address any dental concerns, call us at (877) 880-1212 or visit one of our +100 locations. Remember, the trendiest item you can wear is a healthy smile!
